St Mary’s Church of England Voluntary Aided Primary School in Kettering, Northamptonshire, has been recognized as a good school following its inspection on September 24-25, 2019. The school provides a nurturing environment where pupils feel happy and well cared for. The staff are dedicated to offering the best opportunities for students to thrive, with a welfare team that is attentive to the needs of pupils and their families. This team is readily available to address any concerns that may arise, ensuring that pupils are aware of potential dangers and how to stay safe.
The school has high expectations for all its pupils, who generally achieve well. The curriculum is designed to prepare students effectively for the next stages of their education, with a strong emphasis on developing vocabulary and language skills across all subjects. Teachers employ engaging methods to bring learning to life, including special themed days that captivate pupils' interest. Outdoor learning activities are also utilized to enhance social and communication skills.
Pupil behavior is commendable both in class and throughout the school. The school’s core values—hope, justice, friendship, aspiration, and forgiveness—are integral to fostering a sense of morality among students. Pupil ambassadors embody these values, and the school effectively uses an awards system to recognize good behavior. When issues arise, staff work with pupils to help them understand the implications of their actions, and any rare instances of bullying are addressed promptly and effectively.
The leadership team has crafted a curriculum that reflects the school’s values, with a clear focus on high expectations for pupil achievement. The curriculum is well-structured, allowing for the reinforcement of knowledge across subjects. For instance, connections are made between history and geography, such as learning about the First World War alongside European geography. However, there are areas for improvement, particularly in ensuring that the steps to develop knowledge in some subjects are as well-planned as in others. Occasionally, the activities assigned to pupils do not align perfectly with the intended learning outcomes, and there is variability in the curriculum delivered across different classes.
Reading is prioritized as a fundamental skill for learning, with a well-sequenced phonics program in place. Daily reading is encouraged, and pupils express enjoyment in reading and discussing their favorite books. The school also provides strong support for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, ensuring that all students can participate and succeed in their learning.
In the early years, children receive excellent care, with staff focused on creating a safe and happy environment. The use of picture prompts aids communication for children who speak English as an additional language. Staff have high expectations and quickly assess what children know to tailor their learning experiences.
The school offers a variety of extracurricular clubs and trips that enrich pupils' experiences beyond the classroom. Leaders are mindful of staff workload and have made adjustments to assessment procedures to support teachers effectively. The safeguarding arrangements are robust, with a dedicated welfare team that monitors pupil behavior, attendance, and safety.
Overall, St Mary’s Church of England Voluntary Aided Primary School continues to provide a good education, with a strong emphasis on pupil welfare, high expectations, and a well-rounded curriculum. However, there are areas identified for improvement, particularly in ensuring consistency in curriculum delivery and aligning activities with learning objectives. The school remains committed to fostering a positive learning environment for all its pupils.
